RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - Sunshine, laughter and the promise of prize-filled eggs drew hundreds of families to Hagan Community Park on Saturday March 28 for the annual “Hoppin’ & Huntin’ at Hagan,” a free spring celebration hosted by the Cordova Recreation and Park District (CRPD).

Children of all ages spread across the grass just before 11 a.m., baskets in hand and eyes scanning, as they prepared to “hunt” their way through thousands of colorful eggs. Inside many were small prizes, but the real thrill came from the possibility of discovering one of the event’s coveted golden tickets, a surprise twist organizer said was bigger than ever this year.

Lucky participants who cracked open eggs containing golden tickets were able to redeem them at the CRPD booth for special prizes, adding an extra layer of excitement to the already high-energy hunts.

“This eggstravaganza is such a wonderful way to usher in springtime,” said CRPD Director Rick Sloan. “So many beautiful people of all ages gathering at Hagan Community Park making their time matter with friends and family in the true spirit of easter.”

Children of all ages spread across the grass just before 11 a.m., baskets in hand and eyes scanning, as they prepared to “hunt” their way through thousands of colorful eggs. Photo by Rick Sloan

But the egg hunts were just one course in a full menu of family-friendly activities designed to keep attendees moving, smiling and, in some cases, well-fed. Earlier in the morning, the Kiwanis Club of Rancho Cordova served up a pancake breakfast that ran from 9 a.m. to noon, fueling young hunters before they dashed into action.

Nearby, children navigated a “hopstacle course,” tested their skills at games, and visited a tot lot tailored for ages 2 and under. Face painting stations transformed kids into butterflies, bunnies and superheroes, while families lined up to snap photos with the Easter Bunny, a crowd favorite.

Community booths and local vendors added to the festive atmosphere, alongside music that carried across the park throughout the event.

Organizers credited the event’s continued success to a wide network of local partners, including the Rosemont Community Association, Police Activities League, Rotary Club of Rancho Cordova and Gold River Dentistry.

The Kiwanis Club of Rancho Cordova served up a pancake breakfast that ran from 9 a.m. to noon, fueling young hunters before they dashed into action. Photo by Rick Sloan

CRPD officials said the event remains one of the district’s signature gatherings, blending recreation with community connection in a way that appeals across generations.

“We had an egg-celent time at our Hoppin’ & Huntin’ at Hagan event,” the district shared in a statement online. “From the giant egg hunts to the hopstacle course, meeting the Easter Bunny, golden ticket prizes and more - we had an amazing time celebrating.”

For information on upcoming events, residents can visit the Cordova Recreation and Park District website at www.cordovarpd.gov.